Tag: White Rose Cafe

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri June 1 – June 14, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

According to the calendar, the first official day of summer hasn’t arrived just yet, but our upcoming local events just scream summer. Community fairs begin this week and continue throughout the month of June, plus there’s lots of summer film series happening at area theaters, ice cream socials, rodeos, and cars shows over the next two weeks.

Adding to the summer vibes around here, there’s community markets, free outdoor concerts, festivals and community picnics, as well as free crafting events, and a lot more.

As a reminder, always double check with event venues before heading out just in case an event gets canceled, rescheduled, or experiences weather delays.

Did I miss an event? Tag me on Facebook or Instagram and I can share the event in my stories.

Various dates and times
Cinema 1 Plus in Washington is having a few special movie events throughout the summer. There are kid films series that are $2 a viewing, as well as a flashback cinema series, which offer a second chance to catch a classic flick on the big screen.
Find out more on Facebook.

Various dates and times
Great 8 Cinema in Union and Sullivan 6 Cinema are also featuring a special kids summer film series that kicks off mid-May and runs through late August. Additionally, the admission is $2, and there are $5 value combos available.
Get details on Facebook.

Thursday, June 4
The Music on Main concert series in Union continues this week from 6-9 p.m. The concert happens at Hansen Park and will feature food and drinks available for purchase from Tribal Crunch and Elmer’s Bar and live music by Country Roads.
Learn more.

Thursday, June 4
Washington Public Library is hosting a free event called Get in Touch with a Dinosaur, at 6 p.m.
Find out more.

Thursday, June 4
Find fresh, locally grown produce and food made with local ingredients at Pinckney Bend Distillery in New Haven. Avant Gardens CSA will be onsite selling produce from 4-6 p.m.
More details.

Friday, June 5
American Street Edge Self-Defense Systems in St. Clair is hosting a women’s street safety awareness and self-defense seminar from 6-8:15 p.m. This seminar is for females ages 13 and up, and space is limited.
Learn more.

Friday, June 5
The Washington Historical Society is hosting its annual Ice Cream Social beginning at 4 p.m. Enjoy free ice cream, games, contests, and raffles, as well as barbecue available for purchase.
Get more info.

Friday, June 5
Bring your lawn chairs to Union’s Concert in the Park, happening at the large pavilion at the City Park. The event will feature music by Daddy Rooster.
Visit the Parks & Rec Dept on Facebook for more details.

Friday, June 5 & Saturday, June 6
The Mid Missouri Rodeo Association is coming to the St. Clair Saddle Club. The event will have bull-riding, barrel and bronc racing, pole bending, and many more family-fun events.
Learn more.

Saturday, June 6
Gentle Giants Ranch in Union is hosting a barn sale and open house from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Find horse and barn items for sale, as well as have the opportunity to meet horses, learn more about the facility, and the programs and events hosted by Gentle Giants Ranch.
Find out more.

Saturday, June 6
The Missouri Wine and Cheese Festival is happening at McKelvey Vineyards from 12-8 p.m. Hear live music, find local goods, plus sample artisanal meats, spirits, wine, and cheeses from local makers.
Get more details.

Saturday, June 6
Head to Grant Station Park in Union for free train rides, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, June 6
The St. Clair Farmers Market happens on the first and third Saturday of each month in the St. Clair Elks Lodge parking lot. Stop by between 8 a.m. and 12 p.m. to shop from local farms, cottage bakers, crafters, and other vendors.
Get more info.

Saturday, June 6
East Central College in Union is the site of a free stargazing event, beginning at dusk. Bring your own lawn chair and any star-viewing items like binoculars or telescopes.
Find out more.

Saturday, June 6
Front Street is the site of the Labadie Picnic in Labadie. The event begins with a parade at 1 p.m. and the fun goes until 11 p.m. Expect live music, games, family fun, food, and patriotic celebrations.
Learn more.

Saturday, June 6
The Pacific Lions is having a trivia event to help raise funds for purchasing a wheelchair accessible ramp for the building entrance.
Find out more.

Sunday, June 7
Bethel Hills Community is having an open house from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Head to the community located near Marthasville for live music, food, community tours, and shop from a variety of vendors.
Get more info.

Sunday, June 7
The Open Lake Day at Lost Hill Lake in St. Clair is happening from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. For just $10 per person, you can access the lake and other amenities at Lost Hill Lake.
Purchase tickets and learn more.

Sunday, June 7
Classic cars will line the streets of Downtown Union for the annual White Rose Cruz-N-26, from 12-3 p.m.
Learn more.

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Tuesday, June 9
Make a cute dinosaur themed terrarium at Scenic Regional Library’s St. Clair Branch. The Jurassic Jars program is free to attend and begins at 6 p.m.
Find out more.

Tuesday, June 9
The monthly Crafting & Creativity event at the Washington Public Library is happening at 6 p.m. This month’s craft is creating a 4th of July garland.
Learn more.

Thursday, June 11 – Sunday, June 14
The Franklin County Fair in Union will feature carnival rides and games, food, entertainment, and more.
Get more info.

Thursday, June 11
Listen to free live music at the Music at the Market event at the Washington Farmers Market, from 5-8 p.m., with live music by Rockin’ Lazy R Roadhouse Band, food available for purchase by Sugarfire Smokehous, and drinks by Triple 3 Vineyard.
Find out more.

Friday, June 12
The free Sunset on the Rails concert series continues this month in Pacific, with live music by Twist of Fate. The concert begins at 6 p.m. and attendees should bring their lawn chairs and settle in for an evening of lively tunes.
Learn more.

Saturday, June 13
Celebrate 100 years of Route 66 with the Route 66 Centennial Car Cruise-In, held by the St. Clair Historical Museum and Scenic Regional Library’s St. Clair Branch. The celebration begins in the morning and runs throughout the day and will feature talks about the significance of Route 66 in the area, plus live music and food from Bob & Pat’s BBQ, and of course, classic cars.
Get all the details.

Saturday, June 13
The Sullivan Community Market at Muddy Banks Brewing begins at 9 a.m. and runs until 1 p.m. Find handmade goods, local produce, and more.
Learn more.

Saturday, June 13
Attend the Bluegrass and Country Festival at Point Labaddie Brewery. Gates open at 11 a.m. and the fun starts at noon. Tickets are $15 per person, with proceeds benefiting Community Radio St. Louis.
Find out more.

Saturday, June 13
Head to The Club House and Play Cafe in Sullivan for a fun Father’s Day event featuring open play, massages for dad, and Father’s Day card crafts for the kids.
Get more info.

Saturday, June 13
Frisco Farmhouse in Catawissa is hosting a special Father’s Day Farmers Market from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Find unique gifts for dad made by local vendors, with products like tallow soap, meat products, sweets, sourdough, local honey, and more.
Find out more.

Saturday, June 13
Bethel Hills Community is having an Ice Cream Social event from 1-3 p.m. The public is welcome, but RSVP is requested for planning.
RSVP and learn more.

Sunday, June 14
Meramec State Park in Sullivan is offering free fishing for those who served in the armed services at the Veteran’s Fishing Day event.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.

Multiple dates from June – August
Brookdale Farms in Eureka is having Camp Brookdale, a summer camp event for kids. This screen-free day camp event will give kids an outdoor, adventure themed experience all summer long.
Learn more.

Wednesday, June 3 – Saturday, June 6
The 78th Annual Belle Fair is happening for four days. Experience fair rides, live music, entertainment, food, livestock shows, and more.
Get more info.

Thursday, June 4 – Saturday, June 6
Rolla ‘s Route 66 Summerfest is happening downtown, with live music, a car show, a drone show, parade, food vendors, and more.
Find out more.

Friday, June 5 & Saturday, June 6
Rodeo at the Riverbend at Brookdale Farms in Eureka is a two night event that features a professional rodeo competition, an outdoor concert, food, and plenty of fun for the whole family. Whether you attend for the action in the arena or just soaking in a perfect summer evening at the farm, there’s something for everyone.
Learn more and get tickets.

Saturday, June 6
Step back into history with a guided tour of The Historic Daniel Boone Home in Defiance. Experience an educational and inspiring journey through the lives of Daniel and Rebecca Boone as you explore what life was like on the early American frontier.
Find out more.

Friday, June 12 – Sunday, June 14
Take your pup to Defiance for the town’s Dog Days of Defiance celebration. Find live music and specials at area restaurants, most of which have patios that are pet friendly.
Learn more.

Saturday, June 13
Noboleis Vineyards is having a Films in the Vines outdoor movie event with a viewing of Jane Austen’s romance, “Pride and Prejudice.” There’s no cost for entry, but bring blankets and the winery will have the popcorn, candy, and wine ready.
Get more info.

Saturday, June 13
Onondaga Cave State Park in Leasburg is hosting a series of free night sky viewing events. This month’s event begins at 9 p.m.
Find out more.

Sunday, June 14
Volksfest (people’s festival) will be held at the Harmonie Verein from 4-7 p.m. in Augusta. The annual family-friendly festival will feature an authentic German dinner of grilled fresh sausage from Williams Brothers, warm pretzels, homemade pickles, fermented sauerkraut, German potato salad, and more. Harmonie bar will be available for drink purchases. Admission price is by donation, with all proceeds going back to the museum.
Get more info.

Have a public event coming up? Submit your event details like time, location, and cost to attend. Be sure to include your website and social media details so I can help spread the word about your event!

Posted in News and Features

Here Are The 12 Drinks of Christmas to Try This Season

Posted on by Amanda

Confession time. I love a theme. And since I get really excited over holiday flavored beverages – I’m talking peppermint, eggnog, hot cocoa, and all the warm, buttery, and spiced flavors of winter – I knew I had to share a post about holiday drinks.

Now that we’re two weeks away from the big day, I’m so excited that numerous establishments around Franklin County have rolled out their Christmas and winter-inspired sips. If you also find an indescribable amount of joy in small things like holiday beverages, you’re in the right place.

While I can’t try everything on this list, if that’s your mission this season, good on you! In the spirit of festive sips, I wanted to come up with a list of a few suggestions that hit several categories: non-alcoholic, coffee, non-coffee, and some cocktail options. In no particular order, here a few cheery selections I think are worth trying this season.

Eggnog Latte at Exit 11

When it comes to holiday coffee, I love leveling up my latte by adding winter flavors. I am a total sucker for a great eggnog latte and I love Exit 11‘s version. While I usually drink iced coffee, this one is creamy, cozy, and perfect when served hot.

Santa’s Cookies & Coffee Flight at Sarah’s on Central

If boozy coffee is your thing, you might want to try the December special flight at Sarah’s on Central in Eureka. This flight combines the yummy taste of coffee and cookies, but in a form you can sip and savor. Flight offering is Sugar Cookie, Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal Cookie, and Snickerdoodle.

Available at Sarah’s on Central in Eureka, the Santa’s Cookie & Coffee flight features boozy coffees made with flavorful spirits such as vanilla vodka, RumChata, Fireball, Irish cream, and more. Photo via Sarah’s on Central on Facebook.

Gingerbread House Crafted Soda at Good News Blooms, Sips, N’ Sweets in St. Clair

With a holiday drink menu that includes crafted sodas, teas, and lemonades, there’s a lot to choose from at this cute floral boutique and sweet shop in St. Clair. The crafted sodas include items like the Gingerbread House, Sugar Plum Fairy, and Candy Cane cooler, while the teas on the menu include the Yuletide Citrus and Nutcracker. There’s also the Holly Berry, Snowflake, and Santa’s Citrus lemonades. I’ve ordered the Gingerbread House, a blend of Coke, vanilla, brown sugar cinnamon, and hazelnut. Sweet and delicious! Check out the entire menu.

Grinch’s Heart Cocktail at Eight Nine Eight Cigar Lounge & Bar in Washington

With four festive holiday drinks gracing the menu at Eight Nine Eight Cigar Lounge & Bar in Washington, one stands out to me for its originality and whimsy – oh, and its use of color! The Grinch’s Heart cocktail, with its green hue and cherry garnish looks like a fun and nostalgic way to celebrate the season with an adult beverage. Not feeling Grinchy this season? Choose from the other holiday drinks – Jack Frost Margarita, Blizzard Martini, and Winter’s Kiss.

Grinch Matcha Latte at BB Coffee Lab in St. Clair

And speaking of Grinch-inspired drinks, BB Coffee Lab in St. Clair has released its Christmas drink menu, and there’s lots of festive drink choices from peppermint and cinnamon flavors to eggnog and amaretto. If you’re not a coffee drinker, the coffee shop has a holiday themed matcha, called Grinch Matcha Latte, which combines white chocolate and matcha for a lovely green drink.

Holiday Energy Elixirs at Simply Sweet in Owensville

Simply Sweet is a coffee, sweet shop, and cafe in Owensville. The establishment has a full menu of Christmas drinks that includes flavored hot cocoa and dirty sodas, such as the Jack Frost pictured below, as well as Energy Elixirs made with Alani energy drinks. There are two elixirs on the Christmas menu, but the Frosty’s Frostbite sounds extra special to me. It combines a cherry slushy flavored Alani, along with cupcake and vanilla syrups, plus cream, and is topped with whipped cream, and Christmas sprinkles.

Simply Sweet in Owensville has coffee, cocoas, dirty sodas and dirty Alani energy drinks. The Jack Frost dirty soda at Simply Sweet. pictured here, is made with Starry soda, coconut and vanilla syrups, cream, and topped Blue Raspberry cold foam. Photo via Simply Sweet’s Facebook.

Cranberry Kringle at Scarlett’s Bar & Grill in St. Clair

Located on Main Street in St. Clair, Scarlett’s Bar & Grill has released their Christmas bar menu. With a handful of cocktails along with festive shot selections, there’s a few merry drink choices available. The offerings range from White Russian Eggnog to a Merry Mai Tai, but to me there’s something uniquely festive in the Cranberry Kringle, with its cranberry and peach flavors along with a cranberry and rosemary garnish, it offers both the colors and flavors of the season in a glass.

Peppermint Mocha Smoothie at SmoothEs and More in Sullivan

I love a smoothie because it’s something I can drink on the go, they’re delicious, and usually, they’re healthy. SmoothEs and More is a locally-owned smoothie shop that also serves coffee, breakfast, and lunch offerings, and it has a salad bar. The winter smoothie menu features items like pumpkin and cinnamon flavors, but the Peppermint Mocha smoothie has caught my attention. Its made with coconut milk, hot chocolate powder as well as regular cocoa powder, plus chocolate chips, banana, and peppermint extract for that holiday chocolate, minty flavor.

Holly Berry White Mocha at Clark Street Cafe in Sullivan

In a season where the flavors trend toward peppermint, cinnamon, and buttery flavors like toffee or caramel, the Holly Berry White Mocha from Clark Street Cafe in Sullivan stands out. The cafe released its holiday drink menu just before Thanksgiving, and while so many of the offerings sound up my alley – Brown Sugar Cinnamon Toast Latte or Gingerbread Dreams – I just had to add this merry berry beverage to the list.

Try a Grown Up Slushy at Serendipity Slush Co. in Washington

There’s a number of rotating boozy slush flavors at Serendipity Slush Co. in downtown Washington. Perhaps nothing says Christmas quite like eggnog. And if you’re looking for a unique twist on this holiday beverage, the Salted Caramel Eggnog from Serendipity Slush sounds like a delicious twist on a classic – combining eggnog liquor, spiced rum, salted caramel whiskey, and eggnog. Try it or one of the other flavors available for a grown up version of a slushy treat.

Hot Chocolate at White Rose in Union

This isn’t exclusive to Christmas, but when it’s cold and blustery outside, few things are as comforting as a mug of hot chocolate. I had the hot chocolate at White Rose on a really cold day and it absolutely hit the spot. Chocolatey and creamy, and topped with a generous portion of whipped cream, I could’ve stayed at White Rose all day and sipped mug after mug.

Holly Jolly Tea at The Washington Coffee Shop

Last, but not least, The Washington Coffee Shop has released its winter drink menu and here you’ll find some flavors reminiscent of Christmas treats reimagined as drinks. While I can’t wait to try a couple of the coffee specials, like the Orange Chocolate Mocha (does anybody else have a core memory of opening those chocolate orange balls at Christmas time?) or the Gingerbread House, I also really love the shop’s flavored teas. On the winter menu is the Holly Jolly, a cinnamon and cranberry tea, which sounds like the perfect iced beverage to take along while doing some Christmas shopping.

I realize this list doesn’t cover all the wonderful holiday drink options available at the various cafes, restaurants, and bars across our community. My hope with compiling the list is that when you’re out and about this season, you will consider supporting one of the many locally-owned businesses in the area, from the ones I’ve highlighted here, and the many others I didn’t get to with this post.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in Franklin County May 26 – June 1, 2025

Posted on by Amanda

This week there’s a lot going on in and around Franklin County, including a Memorial Day parade in Union, a free drive-in movie in Washington, a rodeo in Gerald, and the annual car show at White Rose Cafe is happening on Sunday, June 1.

Monday, May 26 – Memorial Day
Watch the parade on Memorial Day in Union at 10 a.m. then head to the American Legion for service at 11 a.m., with lunch immediately following the service.
Get more details.

Monday, May 26 – Memorial Day
If you want some barbecue, but don’t want to spend time at the grill, The Tipsy Keg will have a special barbecue menu for Memorial Day. Find pulled pork, brisket, and ribs beginning at 11 a.m. until sold out. There will also be live music performed by Travis Fadler. 
Find out more on Facebook.

Tuesday, May 27 – Wednesday, May 28
There are two opportunities to take part in dance fitness class Bad Beats. Head to the Washington Community Art Studio for an hour long class that will help you reach your fitness goals while having fun.
Reserve your spot!

Wednesday, May 28
The Franklin County Silent Book Club is hosting its monthly meeting at underGROUNDS Espresso Bar in Washington. Bring your book of choice, order a beverage, and sit and read in companionable silence, followed by a short period dedicated to conversation, or continued reading.
Learn more.

Thursday, May 29
Cinema 1 Plus in Washington will show a different drive-in movie every Thursday night throughout the summer for free. The special showings are kicking off with “Forrest Gump.”
Learn more.

Friday, May 30
Blondie’s Breezeway in St. Clair will have live music from Travis Fadler starting at 7 p.m.

Friday, May 30
The Tipsy Keg in downtown Washington is hosting an Open Mic Night beginning at 7 p.m. Limited food menu available, and drink specials throughout the night. 
Learn more on Facebook.

Friday, May 30 and Saturday, May 31
The Gerald Saddle Club is hosting a rodeo on Friday and Saturday, beginning at 7 p.m. each day. Take in bronc riding, barrel racing, bull riding, and more.
Get more details.

Sunday, June 1
The White Rose Cafe in Union’s annual car show will feature all rides. Cruz-N-25 will happen from noon to 3 p.m.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.

Friday, May 30 – Saturday, May 31
Folky Fish Fest is an unforgettable weekend of folk and new-grass music, culture, and community in nearby St. James. Set against the backdrop of Maramec Spring Park’s scenic surroundings, this one-of-a-kind festival brings together folk and new-grass music lovers for a weekend brimming with creativity and connection. Attendees can enjoy an incredible lineup of live performances from talented musicians on multiple stages, ranging from soulful folk tunes to energetic new-grass jams that will have everyone on their feet. A celebration of creativity and community!
Learn more and get tickets.

Saturday, May 31
The Lions Club Fairgrounds in Linn will be the site of the 573 Vintage Market. Come shop from over 50 vendors, enjoy live music, and delectable eats from food trucks.
Get all the details.